Frameless Structural Glass Balustrades

Using a mechanical fixing which has bolts going through the glass and into point fixings (or Bobbins) behind is the most common solution in our experience. This is because of its simplistic nature with neat aesthetic appeal.

A neat fascia can be connected to the front of the base clamp using a hidden clamp plate, which offers a neat line to finish the balcony. Alternatively, a band of ceramic print can be applied between the two layers of glass which hides the detailing behind. Discs on the front would typically be powder coated to match with the band. This solution typically offers cost savings compared to the fascia option.

When a balcony has a fascia, the mechanical base fixings still uses point fixed ‘Bobbins’ behind the glass, but in front of the glass, a special clamp plate is used.

These plates sit in front of the glass and span between the two point fixings, clamping the glass to the point fixings. The fascia’s hook around these special clamps and have bolts screwed in from above the clamps.

The fascias have drainage slots at the rear face so that any water which collects inside them can drain out.

Wedge fixing of glass can often be an expensive solution for balconies when compared with mechanical fixing.

Sometimes it is chosen by clients when using a heat strengthened glass. This is often because heat strengthened glass isn’t as strong as temper toughened glass, and by wedging the glass, less pressure is applied than with point fixed “Bobbins”.

We have also developed a wedge fixed channel profile, which provides a fixing channel and a fascia incorporated into the same extrusion.

Whilst either monolithic or laminate toughened glass can be used, toughened laminate has fast become the most popular choice for balconies, primarily because of its safety benefits. (I.e. if one pane smashes the other stays in place and will captivate most fragments in-situ. BS 6180 requires two forms of guard which are capable of withstanding the same load, however allowance is made for using laminated glass which enables slim cappings to be used instead of larger handrail profiles.

One of the aesthetic benefits of using laminated toughened glass is that the interlayer can be used to create solid or translucent effects. Whether for privacy or as part of the building’s architectural appeal.

The most common type of interlayer for balcony glass is PVB often chosen for its balance of cost and performance. The use of obscure laminates typically provides a more consistent, durable, and cost effective solution than films, which are applied to the glass after installation. Unlike films, the interlayer is protected between the two layers of the glass.

In addition to using laminate interlayers, there are other choices which can be made to enhance the glass, or to create privacy.

Float glass can also be processed from specialist raw materials including; pre-tinted glass, pre-etched satin glass or low Iron glass. All of which are typically expensive. Iron in glass is typically what gives it a slightly green tint, most visible around the edges. Low iron glass is an extra clear version which can usually be identified by more blue coloured edges. Printing is also an option either as solid, frit or bespoke patterned using screen print, digital print, roller print or back painting.